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TUNES

Monday, July 18, 2016

Oh my, the temps have been very red recently. This very second it is 95 degrees here and the heat index is even higher. It's going to be a very warm week. So it was a pleasant surprise when Sam shifted his color palette from warm to cool. The previous batch of cards were reds and oranges, and last week he chose blue, purple, and teal. I love seeing all the cards together. This is the stage where he labels the backs and packages into sets of four. Typically we have selected cards that are similar to be in a set but I'm thinking this time we may offer a variety of colors. New offerings will be posted this week.

As always, thanks for your support and your enthusiasm for Sam's new enterprise. We've received many lovely emails about the article in Somerset Studio. I've been printing out all the comments, notes, and Etsy reviews to put in a binder and we read them together. It's been a beautiful experience.

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

Last week the new Somerset Studio arrived. My column in this issue features our son Sam and his new venture: Painting with Purpose. Look at this face - it says it all. He was so excited to see his work on the pages of the magazine that regularly arrives here. Our thanks to Stampington who recognized it was a worthwhile story - art making a difference.

We've already gotten some lovely emails about the article, and a handful of orders from new customers! We are adding more selections this week.

Thanks for sharing your kind words and enthusiasm for our story and our project to create purpose for our special guy.

Saturday, April 30, 2016

As April approached I had a grand plan to blog each week under theme of autism awareness. Turns out the month got away from me. Here we are on the last day already. It's been busy, but oh so fulfilling. Thank you to our friends who have supported our new shop. 73 sales is pretty good for our launch month. We also had two commissions - just mailed the second one off today. I had a meeting with our DVR counselor this week. That's a state appointed person who tracks your progress in securing a job - she had referred us to two different agencies to assist with the process. As you know, after three years with no prospects we decided to go out on our own and build a business. She was very kind and went to bat for us with her supervisor to see if they could support us in any way - thanks, but we don't need anything. We got this. While I appreciated her effort, it ended up being a frustrating experience. Because I couldn't supply her with a tax ID and financial reports they regard our enterprise as a hobby, not employment,and have earmarked his file as a non-success. I left the meeting feeling deflated because they don't get it. Profit is not a goal. It's Purpose we are after. And Purpose we created. And Purpose fills our days and brings satisfaction and happiness. Who cares what the files say, we are doing it our way.

On launch day Sam received a bouquet of roses from our friend Janet - a sweet lady I only know through this blog and our email conversations. Thank you Janet - not only for making April 1st a very special day, but you've introduced us to a really fabulous enterprise: Roses for Autism. If you ever want to send roses, this is the place. Visit the site to learn more about their exceptional staff, HERE.

Just after Sam's birthday, he participated in a talent/fashion show at our high school with his peers. It was the most amazing evening seeing these special kids parade across the stage, and sing, and dance. Sam had a display of his cards with two other entrepreneurs; a friend who makes candles and air fresheners, and another artist who paints and illustrates. Super fun night and utterly heartwarming.

As I mentioned, in addition to painting cards, we were commissioned by friends to create special packages. Veering from our usual routine was something Sam took in stride but he can't wait to get back to painting next week. He whizzes through the labeling and packaging because he knows that once that is done he can get back to the easel.

Tomorrow is May. I remember making May Day offerings out of construction paper and filling with leftover Easter grass and a handful of treats to leave at the door of friends. Ring the bell, hang a surprise on the doorknob, and run! It was a tradition in my neighborhood that we continued with our kids. Anyone else do May Day cones or baskets?

Friday, April 01, 2016

We are excited to launch this new venture together, and are making our announcement today,

the beginning of Autism Awareness month.

SPECIAL NEEDS is a phrase that has a double meaning. Yes, Sam has 'special needs' in the way most people think. He has autism. But don't we all have special needs? Rather than shy away from the term we are embracing it to remind us that sometimes you just need a little something special. We hope you like our offerings and will choose to purchase when you want a card to send a personal message.

PAINTING WITH PURPOSE: Our goal is not to make profit but to cover our costs, and more importantly, give us a daily purpose. Our products may not be perfect, but that's the beauty of being handmade with heart. We will be donating a portion of our profit to make a difference in the lives of families who are affected by autism.

CREATING OUR OWN DESTINY: After years of working with agencies trying to find appropriate employment we've decided to create our own destiny with the self-imposed ambition to have a daily purpose. Painting with Purpose has become one of our mantras. Sam loves to sit at the easel and paint piles of paper everyday. Painting, cutting, sorting, counting, labeling, packaging and mailing will be a fun way to insert productive activity into our day.

RIPPLE EFFECT: (And the secret behind our logo) We hope that our choice to open this shop will have a ripple effect and inspire others to do something similar. If you know of a family that is also trying to gain employment for their adult child with special needs maybe you could suggest they find an item that could be handmade and sold too. When there isn't a clear path of what to do after graduation, this could be a worthwhile endeavor. I welcome any questions on how to get launched.

As I mentioned here on the blog, a little while ago I had an epiphany. It wasn't a lightning bolt idea, it had actually been simmering for some time. After meeting with our sixth job coach in nearly three years, with grand hopes of finding appropriate job placement for Sam, it was becoming clear that we needed to invent our own plan for daily purpose. Sam has great skills and has had some work experience, but the applications and interviews were going nowhere. We couldn't even secure a regular volunteer position.

My first vision was to come up with a project that Sam could manage on his own, giving him a routine and a schedule - something that he loves. I purchased a die-cut machine with the intention that he could make sets of gift tags and sell them on Etsy. I buy tags from there all the time so it made sense. The endeavor would be a chance for him to be productive, and see results. Cut, sort, count, package. We began. Then, to explain better what we were doing this for, I pulled out some painted cards Sam had made back in middle school with his class. His teacher, Mrs. Reiss, had her husband make the boys some tabletop easels, and they painted papers which were made into card sets. The boys sold the cards from a table at school events, and even had a display at the church holiday bazaar. As I was reminding Sam about the handpainted cards he got really excited, and it was a *sign* we needed to drop the die-cut tags and focus on painting. So painting it is - and eventually we may circle back to tags, but we also have a few more project plans that will debut later in the year. Sam has purpose. Mom and Dad are proud. Family is supportive, and cheering, and tolerant of the dining room take-over during the painting sessions (he paints 30-40 sheets at a time!).

Painting with Purpose becomes a mission, check.

Tabletop easel, check.

White cardstock, check.

Acrylic paints and brushes, check.

New descriptions of assignments on the calendar, check.

Goal: paint, cut, fold, label, and package cards, check.

Prepare online shop at Etsy prior to April 1st to coincide with Autism Awareness month, check.

A few photos from 2007 when Sam's class was selling cards. Thanks to my friend Maureen Reiss, and the other teachers who got the boys started with the process of painting with purpose. Who knew this would become a daily focus? Awesome.

And a re-cap of our adventure - it's only just begun! Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm with us. It's made the process really fun!

Monday, June 10, 2013

It was an action-packed weekend! The rain shut down the opening ceremonies Friday night for the Special Olympic Summer Games, but the remainder of the weekend was perfect for the event. Many athletes and their families enjoyed two full days of competition and awards. Thank you to our Piscataway Chiefs coaches, and the hundreds of volunteers who make this such an amazing experience.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

The class of 2012 has left the building. Proud families and friends cheered and waved. There is so much to reflect on as we turn the page on high school for Sam and usher Fallon into becoming a senior, where we will do it all over again next year. The calendar keeps speeding by, and we are rolling with it as best as we can.

Lots of activities filled the weekend with my parents visiting....we went to the shore, only to be met by a random raging storm. The boardwalk emptied out and we had great seats for a fun lunch and a lightning show over the ocean. No swiming or amusement rides but the salt-water taffy is always good. Then we spent a day walking around the stunning campus of Princeton. The Art Museum had a special exhibit of the college's Gothic Revival architecture - pages of beautiful renderings and plans for the construction of the famous university were on display. On another day we camped out in Brooklyn for the flea market and Renegade Craft Fair. Pilss of cool stuff - fun to walk among like-minded people with appreciation for handmade goods. It was fun to be near the water and see the Manhattan view from the other side....and it's always nice to spend time with family.

We survived the heat and are bracing for next round. I'm wrist-deep in a very fun project, chasing another deadline. I'll be back when I'm done. I'll pass out the popsicles. What's your favorite flavor? Mine's cherry.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

I am so filled with pride, and gratitude after a very incredible weekend at the summer games. On the global scale it was amazing to see the entire production beginning with the Opening Ceremonies, followed by two full days of sporting events, with lots of extracurricular activities for teams and families. There were literally hundreds of volunteers who offered their help and hearts to host these summer games. It looked effortless which is a tribute to the preparation and dedication of the amazing Special Olympics organization. They were depended upon, and delivered, the tasks of staging, escorting, directing, supporting, congratulating, awarding, and many other important roles.

On the local level I am touched by, and impressed by our coach, his parents, and his team of assistant coaches. We are blessed to have these individuals in our lives as they care about our kids, and believe in encouraging and celebrating their abilities. Many hours have been spent planning, practicing, and preparing for this event. This weekend wasn't just a commitment of showing up at the track - it was much much more. Each athlete was required to spend the weekend in the campus dorms with their coaches and chaperones. For many of us it was the first time letting go of our child for an overnight away from family. Imagine handling that? There was alot of responsibility placed on their shoulders as they managed everything morning through night - bedtime, dressing, showering, eating, travelling, and finally, performing. I'm certain I can speak for all the families of our team when I say we are never going to forget what our coaches have done, and what a gift it was to participate in such a memorable event.

Friday, June 08, 2012

And we're off! Heading down to the Summer Games for Special Olympics New Jersey. The Law Enforcement Torch Run began early this morning, winding its way through the state, meeting hundreds of runners in many townships, then arriving to light the cauldron tonight at the opening ceremonies where we will watch our team parade into the stadium. We are so excited! Pray for sunshine. LOTS of photos to follow.

Saturday, June 02, 2012

It couldn't have been more perfect. A handsome young man and a pretty young girl going to their high school prom. They didn't know it, but their moms were sitting nearby watching all the dates parade in, then enjoyed a few hours in the lobby restaurant getting updates via text message from the guardian angels on the inside. From a distance they looked like every other couple, but we know it was much bigger than that. These are memories we will cherish always - as a family. How cute are they?

Peter couldn't be with us to see Sam and Brianna as he had to work but he got to see the tuxedo'd Sam before the carriage turned back into a pumpkin. His prom was three years ago, photos HERE.

Friday, June 01, 2012

Look at that sweet face. Seems like yesterday that I set up the sheets, and wrangled the boys into the linen coat and saddle shoes, then took photos with real black and white film that I actually had developed.

Today I will be a photographer again....how many rolls of film would it take to cover this day? This month? All the memorable moments will be captured on a small piece of plastic inserted into my camera. How is that possible? And how is it possible that this little one will depart in a dapper tux, with a lovely girl, and attend his senior prom? I am a wreck. Full of joy but a bag of nerves for this big day. I was worried the fancy attire would be an issue but Sam tried it on and modeled for me like it was no big deal. Even the shiny shoes. I am wagering he might be the first on the dance floor. Yes, really. Crossing fingers that the chaperones text me every ten minutes as I sit with Brianna's mom in the hotel bar, anxiously waiting for reports. It's good to know the insiders.

Prom tonight. Special Olympics track meet next weekend. Graduation on the 21st. Milestones that fill us with pride. And happy tears. Pass the tissues.

Monday, April 23, 2012

Yesterday was beautiful, in every way. There had been talk of rain but it held off until today and we enjoyed a breezy sunny morning and afternoon at the track to celebrate ability. Many thanks to our coaches headed by Mr. Buggey, the staff and student volunteers, and the dozens who made the Special Olymics a memorable event. It was our first time as participants and I was blown away by the number of people who were involved to make it a really special day. My heart is brimming after witnessing the pure joy felt by everyone who was there - athletes, families, and the community who made it happen. Here are some highlights from Sam competing in track and field.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

I've seen this many times. It's a scene from the back door. I have passed by this image on the way to do laundry more than once. I see it and I smile. I know what this is and who did it.

Yesterday I chose to photograph it because I never want to forget it. Sometimes we need to stop and take the pictures that remind us of the mental notes we carry of everyday life. This is evidence I will cherish. Someday we may not be living in this home. Someday a regular routine may change. Someday I might wish I had this photo.

This is the place at the back door at the top of the basement stairs where we keep a container for the recycling. Often, even when the bin has been moved to the side of the house or the front curb, I will see a small flattened cardboard item that Sam has left. He's good that way....knowing where it is supposed to go. Knowing it should be recycled not thrown out. As grown-ups we might toss the small box into the trash since the recycling container is missing. This small gesture reveals alot - it not only says that he pays attention to the rules, it reminds me that he loves band-aids. AND it is a clue we need to get more.

On any given day if you are in need of a band-aid you simply go to Sam and he'll gladly share one from his pocket. It's fun to ask, even if you don't need one, because he loves to be the go-to guy.

﻿This photo - such a little thing that is meaningless to most, opens up pages of monologue I could write about this son, this family, this life.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

As I mentioned, this post is brought you thanks to Seth who is hosting a collaborative event of revisiting old entries. I chose this post because it stands out as the first time I shared something personal about my family life, and it was most likely the first time I hit double digits in comments. I really felt a sense of connection and the response I got validated it was ok to share all aspects of life as a wife, parent, daughter, sister, friend, and artist....and that exposing ourselves as real people on our blogs is just as important as expressing ourselves as artists.

Here it is - probably my wordiest post but this time with bigger photos, and I'm including some related content below the original text (which can be seen with the comments from September 2006 HERE).

Originally posted September 3, 2006

Living with AUTISM is a challenge, but it’s wonderful and rewarding.Many children with Autism thrive on routine.They depend on it.Our son Sam is one of those kids.He sets his mind on how and when things should happen.Here’s a story where foiled plans became a dream of a lifetime.

Last year we went to Niagara Falls.We found out that Marineland, an amusement park with exhibits of many mammals, had Orcas.Our son Sam has loved Killer Whales since he was about a year old.I mean, HE LOVES THEM.The walls in his room are covered in posters, and picture calendars, and we have dozens of Orca toys – plastic, plush, large, small, plus magnets, stickers, pillow cases.AND did I mention books?Countless books on whales and dolphins, but mostly Orcas.Free Willy?He’s a friend we watch nearly every day.So off we went to Marineland on Thursday, August 16, 2005.

Once in the park we headed straight for Friendship Cove, home of 4 Orcas.I can’t tell you how excited we all were to watch Sam’s face as he saw, for the first time in his life, a real Killer Whale.It was a moment to remember, followed by many more that weekend.LAST year you could purchase tickets to stand with the trainer to feed and pet an Orca.Yeah, we all did it – more than once.After a full day of fun with the family at the park Sam and I returned for a second day – 9 hours just standing at the tanks, watching the whales.Sam was in heaven.“Goodbye whales, see you next year”.From the day we departed Canada Sam started talking about returning on Thursday, August 17, 2006.If you know a child with Autism, you know that you had to talk about the upcoming trip daily, like 20 times a day.

Fast forward to this past August.Sam was ready, wearing the same shirt as last year so the whales would recognize him.His routine was working up until we got to Friendship Cove – no more ticket sales for feeding the whales.Foiled!The activity was replaced with a new Splash Show.Sure, the Splash Show was fantastic, fascinating, but I could see the despair and confusion on my sweet boy’s face.We stayed for two shows, took lots of photos and video, saw the rest of the park, went on rides, and returned to say good bye to the whales.Sam and I returned again for a second day.Didn’t take the video camera as I had enough footage, right?Bad idea.So we are there, planted into position as we were last year, to spend the day watching the whales swim around their wide open tanks.You are literally two feet away from these beautiful mammals.The Splash Show is every hour and half – so people start filling into the area ten minutes before show time, then disperse twenty minutes later, soaking wet, after the show.The trainers notice we are there, and still there, and again, still there.We talk with one of the attendants – he asks Sam about the pile of books he’s carrying.This young man, Nicholas, bless his heart, cued in that Sam is no ordinary child, and tried to keep him engaged in conversation.One thing was obvious to Nicholas – Sam ADORES the whales.THEN, just prior to the next Splash Show, the “host” of the event, Sean, came over to talk with Sam.I could feel myself leaving my body- you know that kind of moment you have when something REALLY GOOD is happening and time stands still and you can barely speak and the tears flood down your face.Sean tells Sam – I could really use a helper for the show.Do you think you could help me?WHAT DID HE JUST SAY?Dear God, THANK YOU.If I could have felt my legs at that moment I would have dropped to my knees.

The show begins.Mike and Kendra, the whale trainers, introduce themselves to this hysterical mom, with winks and smiles, KNOWING, knowing.Sean is at the microphone, introduces Sam Ward from NJ…..and Sam, who has memorized this show, mimics the trainers.He knew what to do.He knew the act.They got such a kick out of it.Sam was not afraid in the least to be in front of a HUGE crowd.He directed the whales to do their tricks.NEVER in my wildest dreams did I ever expect that Sam would have the chance of a lifetime.All credit goes to Nicholas, who had the insight, and Sean, Mike, and Kendra, who had the hearts, to give this special boy a very special day.Warm hearted thanks to our Marineland friends.I know they feel rewarded, because you just get that from our Sam.

Sam stayed behind the barricade with the trainers after the show.The two whales, mother and daughter, were still floating near the trainer area,- waiting, watching.Sam opened his books to show them the Orca pictures.Page after page.The whales didn’t swim away.Sam read to them.Sam had observed everything they did in their “free time”, and he especially loved when they stuck their tongues out.So Sam sticks his tongue out at the whales and they mimicked him!The hour and half between shows flew by and Sam was honorary trainer for one more show.

Imagine my husband’s reaction when he came to pick us up outside the park at the end of the day!Thank goodness I had my digital camera and could show him and the kids all the proof that we were the luckiest souls on earth that day.Of course I wish they had been with us, but if they were, would it have all happened like it did?Maybe.Maybe not.And Thursday, August 16, 2007?You know where I’ll be!

I uploaded a very short video clip of the eventHERE. In addition to all the heartfelt responses from readers there was a really cool comment that came from Nicholas, who was the catalyst for the dream day. I also heard from a reader who suggested I send the story to Chicken Soup for the Soul as they had an open call for Special Needs themed tales. We made it in!! (with a photo too!)

We went back again to see our friends, the trainers and the whales, at Marineland in 2007 but we haven't been back since. If I had been on the ball with getting passports we would be going this summer. They'll be seeing us again, you can be sure of that. And the memories of our visits will forever reside in our hearts.

Thanks for indulging me in a repost of this story. To see more revisits by other bloggers check in with Seth.

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Check out this article written by Caitlin Reiss, daughter of Sam's teacher, our friend Maureen:

How cool is that? To see the article CLICK HERE. For a list of theaters offering sensory-friendly showings, visit THIS courtesy of the Autism Society of America. Bravo!!

Just back from Minnesota where I had a terrific visit with family and friends. I thank you for all the comments about the Book of Love, and a heartfelt thanks to the participants. I shared it with my parents and they were just as moved as I was to feel the love you have surrounded us with. xo

Saturday, April 12, 2008

We are totally buzzing from a terrific day spent with friends out on the deck for the annual birthday party. It ended up being the BEST weather even though they said it would be otherwise. Not one single drop. Even the medium gray clouds were gone before the party started.

Unfortunately I didn't get everyone in the photo but you get the idea. Here's a cool thing: all the girls are current buddies who come to help out in Room 10. All the boys are buddie-alumni, coming back to visit from High School.

Friday, April 11, 2008

Tuesday was Sam's 16th birthday. Tomorrow we will have the annual party for classmates, teachers, and buddies. LAST YEAR we were blessed with a glorious day. The forecast is for rain, but it looks better than they predicted earlier this week (thunder storms, ack!) It would be great if we could enjoy an afternoon on the deck, so put your positive vibes out will ya?

Special party guest: Miley Cyrus (under glass). It's so cool that Sam's birthday falls in the month we honor Autism Awareness. We can take the opportunity to show our apppreciation to all those who touch Sam's life and make his school experience one that he looks forward to every morning with bright eyes and an eagerness to be there, part of a school that embraces his diversity. This year the take home goodie is a mini-car magnet.....should work on locker doors too don't you think?

Also tomorrow: my father-in-laws birthday, Happy Birthday Phil! My sister and her husband celebrate twelve years of marriage, Happy Anniversary Shannon and Andy! And of course one more birthday...don't have time to make him a special message so I'll share the one from last year HERE.

Wednesday, January 02, 2008

I am often asked where I turn for inspiration, or how I learned to do what I do. I think the most important thing for any person wanting to create is to just get started. You can read all the books and magazines on a subject and it won't mean anything until you start experimenting on your own. Pick up the brush, or the pencil, or the whatever, and begin. Having the impulse to create is a gift. The way in which you do it will work itself out once you get started.

I saw this young man on the Today show. I am still thinking about him. We know art is a channel that lets us express something within ourselves. His story proves that. See a video clip HERE. And visit Seth Chwast at his site HERE. Thanks Seth, for reminding me how powerful creativity is.

Related news: This weekend I saw the new Public Service Announcement by VH1's Rock Autism. I was really moved to see Gene Simmons, Tommy Lee, Robert Plant, Steven Tyler and other rockers supporting Autism. See HERE, click on 2). Then I found their True Life series following three young men with diverse manifestations of Autism. It's compelling and enlightening....and takes about an hour to get through the whole series. See HERE.

It's a new year, a blank page. Put something on it TODAY.

Congratulations to Monica Magness for being the Top Hat Pick for Crusade No. 15. I'll be posting the next Crusade later today. Need a jumpstart for creativity? Come play with us on the Street Team!

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Working overtime is something I KNOW my teachers do. They put in more than what's required to make Sam's classroom time productive and constructive and appropriate. Years ago the boys in Room 10 started painting and packaging blank card sets. Mrs. Reiss's husband even made them table top easels to make is easier. HCIT? The cards are sold at school events to make money for various things like flowers to plant in front of the school each Spring.

Here is Sam with Miss Julie and Mrs. Reiss on SATURDAY (can you say overtime?) at our local church xmas craft sale, selling the Room 10 cards. It's been an annual event for us, and is a terrific 'real world' experience. Life Skills. Should be something we all have to learn while in school, don't you think?

Mrs. Reiss was even there on crutches! Thanks Maureen and Julie for your OVERTIME. And thanks to Mr. Dave and Miss Brenda too - and all the teachers who go the extra mile for our boys. Self-contained classroom is hardly the fitting label for OUR class.

Friday, September 28, 2007

See the news story HERE. How about that headline? I swear it was the author's choice, but it couldn't have been cooler!! If you're here for the first time because of the article, here is the Marineland story: READ To order a copy of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Children with Special Needs, click HERE. As you can imagine, it's a book filled with heartwarming stories. (Great holiday or teacher gift!)

Saturday, July 21, 2007

An exciting announcement: Just confirmed, the story I wrote here (and follow-up here) last fall about our visit to Marineland, is going to be published in the new Chicken Soup for the Soul: Celebrates Children with Special Needs.

One of my readers suggested I send it in, so I did! Cool? Yes, very. It's been edited a bit but they are including a picture, something new to me in these fine books. THIS is an honor that truly touches me. The book comes out October 2007. You can pre-order at Amazon or take advantage of a special through Autism Today: buy 2 get a 3rd free, HERE. (Sample stories available there too.)

And in case you missed the tiny clip I caught on my digital camera, look here. We are heading back to Marineland in one month, can't wait to see our friends again!

Thursday, April 26, 2007

A man was jogging down the beach after a major storm had just come through the area. He was dismayed by the huge number of starfish that the storm had washed up on the beach. He thought there was nothing he could do because of the immense numbers. As he continued down the beach he saw a woman throw something into the water. As he got closer, he saw the woman bend over, pick up a starfish and was about to throw it in the water. The man asked "Why are you doing that? There are thousands of starfish on this beach. You can't possibly make a difference."

The woman looked at the starfish, threw is back into the water and said, "I made a difference to that one didn't I?

One starfish at a time we can make a difference. As Autism Awareness month draws to a close I wanted to acknowledge all the people who touch Sam's life, making a difference to him, and to our family. I know his teachers come here on occassion so this will be a surprise to them. To Maureen, Julie, and Dave, thank you for your dedication and enthusiasm for making Room 10 a success. You know our boys so well and constantly try to offer them the best in real life experiences in addition to their academics. Over the years I have had to offer Sam bribes to do certain things and the other day when I took him to the doctor my bribe was he could go back to school. Now that is cool. He loves it there. To Mrs. Gabler, Miss Rosie, Mrs. G, Mrs. B, Mr. O, Mr. C, all the staff at Schor, and especially the buddies, thank you for loving Sam like we do. It was a proud moment when the Room 10 boys sang the Star Spangled Banner at the school concert. In my heart I was thinking "Look at these Starfish, what a difference you all have made to embrace diversity. You applaud them singing on stage tonight, but you also act kind to them in the halls, and make school a place they want to be". One of many things I'm grateful for.

Several times, for end-of-the-year teacher gifts I have made something with a starfish and enclosed the story above. You don't have to have a special needs child to see the meaning in it. Do you have someone who has made a difference in your life? Share the story, thank them, and then pay-it-forward by making a difference to someone, somewhere, somehow, soon.

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

I had planned to show you this video as part of Autism Awareness. It's a song by Five for Fighting, and by viewing this clip the band will donate $.49 with each play to Autism Speaks. With the tragedy at Virginia Tech it is a fitting song to listen to.....What can one say at a time like this? Music is always my comfort, so I offer this. PEACE.

Got a package full of WishesA Time machine, a Magic WandA Globe made out of Gold

No Instructions or CommandmentsLaws of Gravity orIndecisions to uphold

Printed on the box I seeA.C.M.E.'s Build-a-World-to-beTake a chance - Grab a pieceHelp me to believe it

What kind of world do you want?Think AnythingLet's start at the startBuild a masterpieceBe careful what you wish forHistory starts now...

Should there be people or peoplesMoney, Funny pedestals for Fools who never payRaise your Army - Choose your SteepleDon't be shy, the satellites can look the other way

Lose the Earthquakes - Keep the FaultsFill the oceans without the saltLet every Man own his own Hand

What kind of world do you wantThink AnythingLet's start at the startBuild a masterpieceBe careful what you wish forHistory starts now...

Sunlight's on the BridgeSunlight's on the WayTomorrow's Calling

There's more to this than Love

What Kind of world do you wantWhat Kind of world do you want

What Kind of world do you wantThink AnythingLet's start at the startBuild a masterpiece